2 MAI - 2 years ago
I would have given 5 stars if the driver (Mr Pur) if only he has gone the extra mile to make our trip more memorable on Day 2. I travelled between 1st - 4th Nov 2019 to Lake Toba. On Day 2, Mr Pur did not alert us that we are taking the last ferry from Samosir to our resort to Taman Simalem. When he drove us to the ferry terminal we reached on time though (i.e: 5.45pm) last ferry departs at 6pm. But there was no more empty space for our car as there are heavy big vehicles already taking up the spaces at the ferry. Mindful of time a ferry ride will typically take 1.5hr. Since that was the last ferry leaving from Samosir, our car couldn't get in and left stranded at the island. The last choice either stay at nearby hotel for the night or drive around the mountain of bending narrow roads. The drive will be 4hr plus journey. Finally decide to drive around the mountain braving the winding narrow pitch dark roads. If I had stayed back I would not be able to hike Mount Sibayak and the entire trip is meaningless. My Day 3 was to hike Mount Sibayak to watch sunrise from the peak which means I must leave hotel (Taman Simalem Resort) at 3am to hike Mount Sibayak. With less than 4 hour of sleep, myself and my friend woke up to get ready for Day 3 expedition.
My suggestion after this experience for the drivers especially, if you already know the full travel itinerary of your passengers, please give proper advise and time allowances. Don't give last minute unpleasant suprise and expecting travellers to accept. Not only you put yourself but, the travellers safety at a big risk. It is not about topping up extra cash for driver's petrol due to extended hours or the tippings for good services. What matters most is the driver and travellers safety. Robby, pls educate your drivers that safety comes first and be resourceful when planning the trips with travellers. Mr Pur could have avoid the situtation if only he was resourceful to find out the ferry timings, I would have check that myself if only I can speak local Bahasa Indonesia with the ferry operators or ticket officers. As much as earning a living is important we want drivers to go home safe and sound to their families. I believe all workers must work in a safe environment, don't compromise safety. A gentle advise to all travel drivers from a caring Singapore friend.
